The history of British Railways in the late 1950s/early 1960s is
characterized by change; massive change, as its management attempted to
meet statutory obligations against a background of social, economic and
political influences.
The Modernisation Plan of 1955 paved the way for the electrification of
the route from Manchester to London Euston, with a consequential effect
of the Midland route services via Derby needing to be enhanced and
improved. That eventually resulted in the arrival of class 7 steam
motive power and later also benefitted the cross country Midland route.
This book details, year by year, the changes that took place and
provides an insight into the reasons why decisions were taken, and how
the railway management was faced with a vast range of technological,
natural, socioeconomic challenges to be overcome, whilst also trying to
meet the day-to-day needs of the operational railway.
In addition to tracing the history of the routes, the book includes
performance logs of typical journeys along difficult sections,
recollections of railway men working in various departments and - for
enthusiasts - a list of rare and unusual locomotive workings. The book
is profusely illustrated with black and white, as well as color,
photographs and also includes a comprehensive range of maps.
